The traditional Thai New Year or Songkran day which is locally called Wan Lai, is annually celebrated on 19 and 20 April, though elsewhere in the country the festival falls on 13 April. The activities in the festival include throwing water at each other for enjoyment, beauty contests, colourful processions, folk plays, and paying respect to the seniors of the family by pouring water on their hands.

To promote tourism in the area, Pattaya Carnival is held annually around the end or the beginning of the year at Pattaya Pier, Bali Hai Cape. At the event, a spectacular float of flora, beauty pageant, cultural shows and music performances as well as various exciting water sports competitions take place. Fireworks are also displayed on the beach.

Starting in 2002, Pattaya International Music Festival is held in March each year. On stages, enjoy several styles of music performed by both Thai and international artists. Usually, the event lasts from 18.00 to 24.00 hrs.